10 Best Running Books 2026 in the United States

'How Bad Do You Want It?: Mastering the Psychology of Mind over Muscle' is written by Matt Fitzgerald, a well-regarded author in the field of endurance sports. His expertise is evident as he blends psychological principles with athletic performance, making the book a valuable read for runners and athletes looking to enhance their mental toughness. The target audience spans from amateur runners to seasoned athletes, as the book addresses common mental challenges faced during training and competition.

One of the book's strengths is its motivational content, which is woven throughout the narratives of various athletes' experiences. This storytelling approach can inspire readers to push through their own mental barriers. On the technical side, the book does not offer specific training plans, which might be a drawback for those looking for concrete guidance to incorporate into their routines. Instead, it focuses more on the psychological aspects of training. The technical information on sports psychology is accessible yet insightful, making complex ideas understandable for most readers.

'How Bad Do You Want It?' excels in its motivational and psychological insights, making it a worthwhile read for those looking to strengthen their mental game in running and other endurance sports.

Daniels' Running Formula is a well-regarded guide in the running community, authored by Jack Daniels, a highly respected exercise physiologist and coach. His expertise is evident throughout the book, which provides detailed, scientifically-backed training plans suitable for runners of various levels, from beginners to advanced athletes. The book's target audience is mainly adult runners (18 years and up) who are committed to improving their performance and understanding the science behind their training.

The training plans are comprehensive and customizable, offering clear explanations and structured schedules that are easy to follow. Additionally, the book includes motivational content to keep readers inspired and focused on their goals. Technical information is presented in an accessible manner, making complex concepts understandable without overwhelming the reader.

The physical dimensions of the book (7 x 0.9 x 9.9 inches) and its weight (1.4 pounds) make it a convenient size for reading or carrying to the gym. Published by Human Kinetics, the fourth edition is current as of March 2021, ensuring updated content. While it may not appeal to casual joggers looking for light reading, dedicated runners seeking to enhance their training regimen will find it highly beneficial.

Running Form: How to Run Faster and Prevent Injury is a solid choice for runners who want to improve their technique and reduce the risk of injury. The book is written by an author affiliated with Human Kinetics, a respected publisher in sports and fitness, which suggests credible expertise behind the content. It targets adult readers, likely those with some running experience looking to refine their form rather than complete beginners or casual joggers.

The book offers clear explanations and practical advice focused on running form, which is essential for speed and injury prevention. While it does not specifically mention detailed training plans or motivational stories, its strength lies in technical information about biomechanics and movement, making it useful for runners who want to understand how to run more efficiently. With 232 pages, it’s comprehensive enough to cover key concepts without being overwhelming.

Because it includes excerpts and a detailed table of contents, readers can preview the type of guidance offered before committing. The physical size and weight make it a comfortable book to carry or read at home. Although it may not be ideal if you’re seeking a highly motivational read or step-by-step training schedules, this book provides a trustworthy, well-structured resource for those whose main goal is to learn correct running technique to improve performance and reduce injury.